“Baby Zebra”, 9″ x 12″ Lesley Barrett

The International Society of Scratchboard Artists  has a special place in Ampersand’s heart.  We are honored to be a sponsor of the society as well as honored that most, if not all, of the artist members prefer Ampersand Scratchbord™ panels for their work.  This unique society has worked diligently to initiate itself and at long last, The International Society of Scratchboard Artists has come to fruition. 

Scratchboard has long been around, a type of engraving and a use in illustration, it is now being embraced as a fine art form.  Scratch art is a subtractive form of drawing, working a darkened surface made black using India ink, by making marks with a variety of tools and oil-free steel wool.  Ampersand carries a line of these accessories as well if you are interested in starting scratchboard work.

The surfaces for scratch art have evolved as well as the art itself.  Before Ampersand’s Scratchbord was used for scratching techniques, there was heavy paper coated with india ink available, which is still in use by many artists.  But now, Ampersand is the proud contributor of the only archival wood panel specifically designed for scratchboard art.  

The ISSA is currently gaining membership and has opened their doors for their first annual juried Exhibition in July.  They are taking entries now through April 25th.  To read the prospectus and find out about entry fees, refer to their website:  ISSA Annual Exhibition.  To learn more about the ISSA, their events and joining as a member, you can find all of the details on their newly developed website:  International Society of Scratchboard Artists.

Thanks for reading,

Karyn